EMS Protocols?

Question

Are EMT’s trained to do a professional job enough to take you to the hospital… do they have to still call a doctor for protocols while in an ambulance?

Answer 1

First, you have to differentiate between the different types of EMT's. An EMT-Basic is only trained to provide basic life support skills. An EMT-Paramedic is trained to do much, much, more.

All EMT's are trained to perform as professionally as possible. They are primarily concerned with treating any immediate, life threatening conditions, and getting you stable enough for transport to the ER.

Most EMT's have written protocols that they follow (with some leeway, of course-there are exceptions to every rule). For most things, they just go by the written protocols, and they don't have to contact a doctor at all.
If they have any questions, or they need to grossly deviate from the protocols, or they want to perform a procedure that requires a doctor's permission, then they will contact a doctor at the ER for advice.
This varies from state to state. Some states allow their paramedics to do more than others, with varying degrees of physician oversight.

Hope this helps...

Answer 2

EMT's are trained to do life saving things, wound care, cpr etc, Paramedics are trained to do advanced life support, breathing tubes ect. There are certain meds both can give without calling in for permission, Some examples are an epi pen for allergic reactions or nitro for a heart attack. Other durgs like pain management drugs need to be called in and asked for. They are both highly trained and worth using in an emergency. It could make the diffrence between life & death. Every state does have diffrent protocals so check with your local EMS office about what both are allowed to do in your area.